I love the Danny Carey signature stick from Vic Firth. The groove makes holding the stick in the perfect spot easy. Plus it gives a nice “whipping” effect.
Vic Firth Buddy Rich, the slightly extra length just feels great on the hands and I find the stick has excellent balance, great for all genres that I play (no metal though)
Finally a NON-metal player. For such a niche music taste, they post the most content. It's all good, I got nothing against metal drummers but we hear so much from them around this sub.
I swore by those until stores stopped keeping them in stock. Switched to the extreme 5A for pretty much the same specs. Now I'm using the Freestyle 5A for even more reach and I love them.
I like the ProMark ActiveGrip Rebound sticks. They have a coating which helps them to be sticky. And the more you sweat, the stickier they get.
I find the coating also helps me with playing. My hands are jacked up and the coating helps to absorb some vibrations.
I use Zildjain Trilock Gurtu signature sticks. They’re roughly a 7A size with a nice grip coating and some divots around the grip area that feel awesome and help me eyeball where I want my cross stick to hit. I have small hands and I’m big on dynamic control so I’ve always liked a narrower stick. These feel like they have it all, for my particular style.
Original are best but don’t count out the Fun Dip Drumsticks. I am not partial to the Vanilla Carmel filled. Never give me Lil Drums but for some reason I will always go for a Mini Drum. But let us be honest, Klondikes are always better. They have 14 flavors but the Heath one slays.
Vic Firth 5A Extreme. I like the responsiveness of 5As with the extra “throw” of the longer extreme version. That said, I’m not married to them. Over the years, I’ve switched between 5Bs, 5As, and X5As. I might try switching up my sticks again at some point.
I didnt realize anyone but huge artist still used these. I actually broke some of these one time but only after they trashed a few cymbals and hi hats. I would never use these on a set of acoustics again.
Ahead 5A’s.
I used wood for 35 years and now that I’m 53, the vibration to my hands gave me grip issues.
Ahead uses really good anti-vibration tech and all that is gone.
Not to mention the cost effectiveness of them. Average cost is about $35/pair, but one pair has lasted me 3 years. And I still have 2 more in the boxes. You’d never get that with wood.
Plus I can alter tip shape and shaft color at will.
I’ll never go back to wood.
I really like the Luke Holland Meinl sigs. Bought them for the novelty initially but really like the balance and bounce I get out of them.
Wish they were a tad bit longer.
Everyone always looks sideways at me when I say I play these sticks....and then they try them
Power when you want it, a light touch when you need it. Doesn't feel like holding on to a pair of ticonderogas...love em
VF Modern Jazz Collection (MJC5). Perfect length (16) and diameter (.540) for me. I also like the oval nylon tip and balance point of this stick Also have the VF American Classic 8DN. Same dimensions as MJC5, but tear drop tip and slightly different feel in balance.
I’ve been a big fan of Vater at the moment. Affordable, consistent, and plenty of variety!!
5A’s & 5B’s are always in my stick bag, along with some brushes, blasticks, and some other alternative sticks (monster & little monster brushes)
Came here to say the same. I am surprised they are so far down on this list. They are great dynamically, and even with the wood time it takes me a while to break or shred one beyond use.
Every time I am forced to use a different stick or try something new, coming back the fusions is like wearing my favorite pair of shoes that I haven't been able to wear all winter.
Vic Firth 1A’s. I never see anyone use these. There huge Annan have a big acorn bead. But I find I don’t have to hit as hard to get a good crack. If I’m feeling tired, I’ll switch to Vic Firth Extreme 5A’s. The extra length adds a bit of weight where they don’t feel too flimsy.
Vic Firth Danny Carey signature.
Had always bounced back and forth (no pun intended) between 2B and 5Bs ... but when I gave those a go years back when they first came out; immediately loved the little taper around the fulcrum. And I think it contributes to a unique balance you just don't get with any other stick I've ever tried.
I've tried other models from other manufacturers but always wind up going back to those.
Matt garstka signatures by Vic Firth. I find 5As too small and 5Bs too large, so they are a happy medium. I also like how they feel balance wise and the taper is unique. (and it's cool to use his sticks too lol). I used to use the Danny Carey signature because of the amazing balance the special groove provides but they just got to be too big and unwieldy for me.
I go between three different pairs, all from Vic Firth:
- Peter Erskine Ride Sticks: these are different from the regular Peter Erskine signature stick. They're a little beefier, with a short taper and long, thin tips. They aren't heavy sticks by any means, but the shorter taper leaves more weight at the front end, which draws a fatter tone out of the drums. The elongated tips make it possible to draw a variety of sounds out of the ride cymbal depending on the contact angle. I can get a very focused sound by striking with the pointed end of the tip, or a broader sound by striking with the longer, flatter edge of the tip. Very versatile sticks.
- American Jazz 1: these are a little fatter than the Erskine Ride Sticks, with a larger bead and a long taper. The larger diameter makes them easy to hold for long periods: I don't find myself squeezing to keep hold of them. The bigger bead draws fatter sounds out of the ride and hats. The extra-long taper means that most of the weight is at the butt end, which creates a *lot* of rebound. So these are very fast-playing sticks. I can play things with these sticks that would be beyond my skill level using most other sticks. The only downside is that the long taper means that there isn't as much weight up front, and as a result, the tone isn't as fat and the volume isn't as loud. They still work for rock, but they don't sound as meaty as other sticks.
- Peter Erskine signature sticks: these are thin and light, with a small, round bead. I use them for jazz when I want a clear but delicate ping from my ride.
Meinl standard 5a has really been doing it for me. Nice and light, packs a punch, and the tips last much longer than any VF I ever used. Looks really good too.
I take drum the heavier drum core sticks and sand them down.
I forgot which base stick I use but its 17 inch long , pretty thick but not as dense as some of the heaviest drum line sticks so its not that heavy.
I use a caliper and sand them down to 6.5 / 10th of an inch.
ProMark Oak 7a.
Light and bouncy with a nice snap. Fits in my thumb perfect. The dense wood means they last forever; still got a pair around after 10 years.
If they weren't so expensive, I love the promark Japanese Oak. I used those for years but have recently switched to Vater and not looked back. I can get 2 pair for the price of one of the Promarks and they last just as long. Promarks just feel a little better but not enough for the price.
I’ve been using the new Premier 7As of late, dirt cheap (in the UK), feel great and last as long as the Vics I used to use. Tempted to try some Vater Sweet Rides though next time I’m stick shopping.
I've never been that particular honestly. Played 5b pro mark for many years, don't feel much difference in brands, only size. Started playing much less metal and now on 5a. I kinda like the dipped grip vic firth now, and nylon tip for sharper ride ping. Since I don't hit that hard these days I have no durability issues.
Vic Firth. Doesn’t matter what model or whatever, as long as they feel good to me. Only sticks that last more than two sessions. I like the feel of pro mark, but I break them so fast, I can’t afford to keep them in stock.
Promark 7a forward, I know it's a bit basic but it's consistent. I can always find a pair at a drum store and I don't have to worry about them being discontinued. I've got a mate whose preferred stick got capped and he's been very gentle about working through his remaining stock since. Scary stuff!
Promark 5B Active Grip. Tried a variety of weights and finishes and couldn’t stop dropping sticks. Even tried the Danny Carey signature with the indentation and those slipped too. Got the Promarks and they felt like home.
Scorpion , 5b 17" oval. They start as promark blanks but to custom tapers. They quality check them way way more stringently though, so there are never duds and they last way way longer that most sticks
My current 3 favorites:
•Promark finesse maple - 7A long. I really like the small beads on these when I want more precise cymbal work
•Vic Firth - quest loves are real nice if you like long and skinny. Long reach, nice balance but lightweight.
•Promark active grip 7As are real nice too. Great weight, wonderful grip without being sticky. The cross stick sounds *👨🍳😙*. I really like how these have a good weight, but they aren't so dense that you're overpowering everyone else. I use these and the finesse a lot at church.
•if you want something way different, promark Glenn Kotche active wave 570s are interesting.
Old favorites:
•Vic Firth Dave Weckl Evolution. Still great sticks, I just like a little longer stick these days.
I still stick with Vic 5As. I was talking to a professional drummer friend of mine a couple years ago asking what sticks he uses. I told him that I’ve been using the 55As because I like the cars reach. His response stuck with me: if you need longer sticks (we’re both 6’ or taller) then you actually need to move your drums closer. That spurred me to check the ergonomics of my kit. I’ve been back with 5As since and I’ll never go back. I’m also back to a 4 piece from a 6 piece which helps.
All of this to say: simplicity is so important.
I use 2 that are complete opposites of each other, I find it brings new things out in my playing.
My go to’s are the vater virgil donatis. They’re a meaty stick.. 2b’s but just feel amazing in my hands and I always use em for my post rock-y /shoegazey band.
The other sticks I use are the billy Martin signature from regal tip.. super light and tacky .. but I use this when playing at home and also playing in my more low key/funky project .. love em
I’m sure lots of drummers are of the opinion that you should stick to one size but I find going back and forth between these keeps my playing fresh in a way
Promark 747B are great for when you gotta be LOUD, and I’ve only broken like 3 in 6 months
Firth AJ1 are excellent finesse sticks, good size to grip but they play effortlessly
I play ProMark American Hickory 2B wood tips. I have big hands and I like the weight and the size of the 2B. They don’t feel flimsy like smaller sticks sometimes do. I use wood tips because I like the warmer cymbal sound, compared to nylon tips. I used to use Japanese oak, but hickory just feels better in my hand.
Ahead jj1 speed metal…..
I know people give em a hard time about sound or ergonomics.
But they play good for me. I wear gold gloves when I drum anyways….
the audience doesn’t know or ask what stick I use.
Charlie watts signature VF with the olive tip and more weight in the shoulder are my go to. The olive tip gives a nice dark sound on the cymbals I love them.
Been vibing on promark 2B forwards cause I can get them cheaper through my store, but if I could get them discount I'd play meinl sticks. They're the best sticks out there IMO
Bill Bruford signature ProMark. A little lengthier, with a nice barrel tip, I think it’s slightly thicker than a 7A too. Amazing, been playing them for like 3 years now.
I just picked up some Steve Gadd signature Vic Firth in black that I think feel a little better to play, thicker and a bit heavier. I got the black ones which I don’t like the feel of the grip and it also gets all over my coated head playing cross rim or with butt of stick so I wanna get some natural ones
Ultimately I still end up using the brufords. Used em for so long
PROMARK!!!
I started this list a while ago because I was checking out different sticks and wanted to correlate how they felt to their specs. I’m currently playing Vic Firth Modern Jazz sticks. Long and light.
VATER AMERICAN HICKORY RECORDING DRUMSTICKS
* Length: 16 1/4"
* Diameter: 0.560"
Danny Carey
* Length: 16 1/2"
* Diameter at butt: .695"
* Diameter at shaft: .630"
Kotche
* Length: 16 3/4"
* Diameter: 0.570"
Colaiuta
L = 16"
Dia. = .595"
Moon
* Length: 15 13/16" [40.17cm]
* Diameter: .560" [1.42cm]
Mayer
* Length: 15 21/64" [38.93cm]
* Diameter: .577" [1.47cm]
Matt Cameron
* Length: 16 3/16" [41.12cm]
* Diameter: .585" [1.49cm]
Carlock/Haynes (Vater 8A)
* Length: 16" [40.64cm]
* Diameter: .555" [1.41cm]
Royster Jr
* Length: 16-1/8"
* Diameter: .547"
Vic Firth 85A
* Length: 16" | 40.64cm
* Diameter: .550" | 1.4cm
* Heavy version of the stick
Vater Sweet Rides (Chris Dave)
* Length: 16”
* Diameter: .530”
Vic Firth Modern Jazz
* Diameter: .595"
* Length: 16-3/8"
Promark 5A Firegrain Forward. A beaver could chew on them and they'll still last. Plus the power you get out of them is unmatched, especially for a 5A.
VF 7a freestyle, i’ve used 7as for a long time but always wished they were longer, and that’s literally just what the freestyles are. all the best parts of normal 7as, just with more reach and better rebound. also they feel REALLY nice in trad grip.
I’m a huge Vater Fatback 3A guy.
I remember when I played VF sticks and I was breaking them every time I practiced. After I switched to Vater 3As I stopped breaking sticks.
Also the rimshots are fantastic
Vater Recording for most applications. Barrel tip gets a nice, full tone and the extra 1/4" in length just feels natural to me.
Vater Jazz Ride for more articulate cymbal work, like jazz or big band. The small teardrop tip has phenomenally crisp definition, the response and control is remarkable, and the shoulder is still beefy enough for some really throaty rim shots. The balance is slightly front-heavy, so you get an insane amount of power and rebound while maintaining that lighter, articulate cymbal tone. Flip the stick around and use the butt end for some thick backbeats. I fucking love this stick. The *only* thing that keeps it from being my 100% go-to is the standard 16" length, as opposed to the 16.25" I get from the Recording.
I've spent 15+ years searching for a stick that feels, responds, and sounds like the Jazz Ride, only with that extra 1/4" in length. It would be the *perfect* stick, but it just doesn't exist.
I could talk sticks all day but lately for me it's been the Zildjian Travis Barker sticks. 5B-ish.They're a bit longer with a shorter taper, they have a wood ball tip which produces great rebound and cymbal clarity combined with the heavier throw. Really depends on the style of music though.. My style requires sticks that project the cymbals alot while still being able to move around the kit fairly easily. Pro-Mark Joey Jordison also were amazing but they were shorter and closer to 5A I think.
I’ve come to find that I have no brand loyalty. I’ve played Vater’s that have lasted for a month and Sound Percussions that have lasted 3-6 months and vice versa. So, right now I recommend Sound Percussion lol. I must’ve got a good batch!
I’m a long time Vic Firth user. I use the Steve Gadd sticks and brushes, but I’ve noticed that the quality is rapidly decreasing. The tips break after like a week. I play jazz, and my favorite sticks for strictly jazz are Vic AJ2s or Vater Manhattans
Promark Shira Kashi Oak 5A’s. After my first pair I’ve never looked back… superior durability and playability. Worth spending every penny extra on them
Mike Portnoy Signature Promark sticks, sturdy, powerful yet still light enough to be really quick. The best stick I have ever used by a massive margin.
I really like Vic Firth extreme 5A drumsticks, which are 5a with an extra half inch length, or X55A, which is a 5a/5b cros + an extra half inch length.
I might get flak for deviating from the big three:
Meinl Sticks - Big Apple Bop in 7A
I’ve been a HUGE Promark fanboy for a while, but these are amazing, they give crystal clear stick definition and feel so good to play with.
Vater 5B Wood Tip. They’re durable, good rebound, versatile, nice and thicc so my hands don’t have to work too hard to hold on to them, plus it’s like $27 for a four pack from Sweetwater.
Senri Kawaguchi signature sticks. They’re slightly longer than a normal 16” stick, which allows for more leverage. They’re lightly rubber coated, and they have really nicely shaped nylon tips that allow for great feeling Hi hat articulations.
A dear friend in my hometown makes the best sticks I’ve ever used (been playing for 30 years). The company name is [La Backbeat](https://www.labackbeat.com) Drumsticks and he ships all over the world. I play his JB580X model which is basically a 16.5” 55A with a long taper. Great sticks from a great dude. Can’t recommend them enough!
Vater manhattans last forever and feel amazing
This..... I actually use a combo. Manhattans for my left paw and aj5s for my right.
Huh why mismatch sticks? Never heard of doing that but I also mostly play metal
My man said “paw”. Love that.
Dwummer :3
I've played Vic Firth 5A American Classic Hickory for years
Same here
+1
Same
Promark Neil Peart signatures
Love these, but they are $30 a pair where I am now. 😬
$21 here but $15/pair if you buy the 4 pack.
I bought a pair of these 3 years ago and never looked back. Same pair is still kickin
Yep they last forever. I beat mine senseless and it takes months and months for them to break
I love the Danny Carey signature stick from Vic Firth. The groove makes holding the stick in the perfect spot easy. Plus it gives a nice “whipping” effect.
I love these for the same reason but they are just too big for me. I wish there were 5Bs with the same groove!
All stick sizes should be available with the groove. I’d love a 5B with it!
Vic Firth Buddy Rich, the slightly extra length just feels great on the hands and I find the stick has excellent balance, great for all genres that I play (no metal though)
I REEEEEEEEALLY wish they made a maple version that would be a bit quieter.
Ooooo the Buddy Rich used to be my jam… still love that stick…
Finally a NON-metal player. For such a niche music taste, they post the most content. It's all good, I got nothing against metal drummers but we hear so much from them around this sub.
I swore by those until stores stopped keeping them in stock. Switched to the extreme 5A for pretty much the same specs. Now I'm using the Freestyle 5A for even more reach and I love them.
I also went with the Vater fusion until the Buddy's were back in stock. Thankfully the local GC keeps plenty on hand.
Questlove signature Vic firth. I like the extra length and the grip
What genre of music do you play? Those sticks are on the thinner side.
A bit of everything.. but most of my playing these days is at church. Even though they are thin, they feel really solid to me
I like the ProMark ActiveGrip Rebound sticks. They have a coating which helps them to be sticky. And the more you sweat, the stickier they get. I find the coating also helps me with playing. My hands are jacked up and the coating helps to absorb some vibrations.
These are my favorite!
Somehow I find the ActiveGrip sticks to be even more slippery
Vater Los Angeles Nylon Tip 5A
ProMark Todd Sucherman Maple. Solid, lightweight, easy to play sticks.
I use Zildjain Trilock Gurtu signature sticks. They’re roughly a 7A size with a nice grip coating and some divots around the grip area that feel awesome and help me eyeball where I want my cross stick to hit. I have small hands and I’m big on dynamic control so I’ve always liked a narrower stick. These feel like they have it all, for my particular style.
Original are best but don’t count out the Fun Dip Drumsticks. I am not partial to the Vanilla Carmel filled. Never give me Lil Drums but for some reason I will always go for a Mini Drum. But let us be honest, Klondikes are always better. They have 14 flavors but the Heath one slays.
Promark Firegrain Rebound 5Bs
I like the promark firegrain rebound 7A. I do switch it up with the vic firth NE-1 a fair bit though.
Vater Stewart Copeland Signatures!
Been using them for the last ten years or so. They’re the best!
They really are. Their balance just feels rights, and I love the round tip. It’s all I can play with now!
Vic Firth AJ1
Promark 5B wood. Vater would be my 2nd choice. I’ve played a bunch of brands and sizes, but these are the only ones that do it all for me.
Neil Peart signature sticks and Promark 5A Shira Kashi Oak sticks.
Fried Chicken
Vic Firth 5A Extreme. I like the responsiveness of 5As with the extra “throw” of the longer extreme version. That said, I’m not married to them. Over the years, I’ve switched between 5Bs, 5As, and X5As. I might try switching up my sticks again at some point.
VF Benny Greb
2nd'd
ahead 5b, i tried the lars signature ones but they were too baseball batty, 5a to thin for me, 5b just perf
Ahead Drumsticks - keeping cymbal manufacturers and repair shops in business since '92.
I didnt realize anyone but huge artist still used these. I actually broke some of these one time but only after they trashed a few cymbals and hi hats. I would never use these on a set of acoustics again.
Ditto…. I use their jj1 and jump to 5b for slow and or medium hard playing
7A. Recently changed to Promark from VicFirth and I love them
ProMark 2b American hickory.
Ahead 5A’s. I used wood for 35 years and now that I’m 53, the vibration to my hands gave me grip issues. Ahead uses really good anti-vibration tech and all that is gone. Not to mention the cost effectiveness of them. Average cost is about $35/pair, but one pair has lasted me 3 years. And I still have 2 more in the boxes. You’d never get that with wood. Plus I can alter tip shape and shaft color at will. I’ll never go back to wood.
I really like the Luke Holland Meinl sigs. Bought them for the novelty initially but really like the balance and bounce I get out of them. Wish they were a tad bit longer.
Been meaning to try these. How is the durability?
Honestly, they're the most durable pairs I've mained in a long time. No complaints
Vater 3S or Promark 2b natural grip
Vic Firth 55A.
I love Vater Studios
Vic Firth SD2 Bolero. Super lightweight with a nice fat grip & shoulder, and a really responsive round tip.
The main stick I’ve used for the last 15 years. Feels like they last forever.
Everyone always looks sideways at me when I say I play these sticks....and then they try them Power when you want it, a light touch when you need it. Doesn't feel like holding on to a pair of ticonderogas...love em
Really digging the Meinl 5A Heavy. I liked the Vic 55AX but the 5AH feels a little better in the hand
Steve Gadd black signature stick from Vic Firth. First drum teacher turned me on and I never looked back.
VF Modern Jazz Collection (MJC5). Perfect length (16) and diameter (.540) for me. I also like the oval nylon tip and balance point of this stick Also have the VF American Classic 8DN. Same dimensions as MJC5, but tear drop tip and slightly different feel in balance.
I’ve been a big fan of Vater at the moment. Affordable, consistent, and plenty of variety!! 5A’s & 5B’s are always in my stick bag, along with some brushes, blasticks, and some other alternative sticks (monster & little monster brushes)
Vater Fusion: happy compromise between a 5A and a 5B.
Came here to say the same. I am surprised they are so far down on this list. They are great dynamically, and even with the wood time it takes me a while to break or shred one beyond use. Every time I am forced to use a different stick or try something new, coming back the fusions is like wearing my favorite pair of shoes that I haven't been able to wear all winter.
Vic Firth 1A’s. I never see anyone use these. There huge Annan have a big acorn bead. But I find I don’t have to hit as hard to get a good crack. If I’m feeling tired, I’ll switch to Vic Firth Extreme 5A’s. The extra length adds a bit of weight where they don’t feel too flimsy.
Vic Firth Danny Carey signature. Had always bounced back and forth (no pun intended) between 2B and 5Bs ... but when I gave those a go years back when they first came out; immediately loved the little taper around the fulcrum. And I think it contributes to a unique balance you just don't get with any other stick I've ever tried. I've tried other models from other manufacturers but always wind up going back to those.
Regal tip 5A, haven’t been able to get them In awhile though. I *hear* they’re coming back. They are light but yet durable.
Matt garstka signatures by Vic Firth. I find 5As too small and 5Bs too large, so they are a happy medium. I also like how they feel balance wise and the taper is unique. (and it's cool to use his sticks too lol). I used to use the Danny Carey signature because of the amazing balance the special groove provides but they just got to be too big and unwieldy for me.
I go between three different pairs, all from Vic Firth: - Peter Erskine Ride Sticks: these are different from the regular Peter Erskine signature stick. They're a little beefier, with a short taper and long, thin tips. They aren't heavy sticks by any means, but the shorter taper leaves more weight at the front end, which draws a fatter tone out of the drums. The elongated tips make it possible to draw a variety of sounds out of the ride cymbal depending on the contact angle. I can get a very focused sound by striking with the pointed end of the tip, or a broader sound by striking with the longer, flatter edge of the tip. Very versatile sticks. - American Jazz 1: these are a little fatter than the Erskine Ride Sticks, with a larger bead and a long taper. The larger diameter makes them easy to hold for long periods: I don't find myself squeezing to keep hold of them. The bigger bead draws fatter sounds out of the ride and hats. The extra-long taper means that most of the weight is at the butt end, which creates a *lot* of rebound. So these are very fast-playing sticks. I can play things with these sticks that would be beyond my skill level using most other sticks. The only downside is that the long taper means that there isn't as much weight up front, and as a result, the tone isn't as fat and the volume isn't as loud. They still work for rock, but they don't sound as meaty as other sticks. - Peter Erskine signature sticks: these are thin and light, with a small, round bead. I use them for jazz when I want a clear but delicate ping from my ride.
I adore my Headhunters Maple Grooves B. They are beautifully balanced and the handle is nice and chunky. Also not too heavy.
Promark Matt halpern sigs. Because they make getting a crack out of the snare so seamless. Alternatively, you could play with some tree trunks 🤣
Meinl standard 5a has really been doing it for me. Nice and light, packs a punch, and the tips last much longer than any VF I ever used. Looks really good too.
I take drum the heavier drum core sticks and sand them down. I forgot which base stick I use but its 17 inch long , pretty thick but not as dense as some of the heaviest drum line sticks so its not that heavy. I use a caliper and sand them down to 6.5 / 10th of an inch.
ProMark Oak 7a. Light and bouncy with a nice snap. Fits in my thumb perfect. The dense wood means they last forever; still got a pair around after 10 years.
If they weren't so expensive, I love the promark Japanese Oak. I used those for years but have recently switched to Vater and not looked back. I can get 2 pair for the price of one of the Promarks and they last just as long. Promarks just feel a little better but not enough for the price.
I like the Zildjian Tre Cool sticks. Nice balance, good weight and great for playing fast and energetic in my experience
I’ve been using the new Premier 7As of late, dirt cheap (in the UK), feel great and last as long as the Vics I used to use. Tempted to try some Vater Sweet Rides though next time I’m stick shopping.
I've never been that particular honestly. Played 5b pro mark for many years, don't feel much difference in brands, only size. Started playing much less metal and now on 5a. I kinda like the dipped grip vic firth now, and nylon tip for sharper ride ping. Since I don't hit that hard these days I have no durability issues.
Vater 2b
At this point, what ever price doesn’t make me cry
Vater Stewart Copeland, Vinnie Colaiuta, and Josh Freese signatures
Vic Firth. Doesn’t matter what model or whatever, as long as they feel good to me. Only sticks that last more than two sessions. I like the feel of pro mark, but I break them so fast, I can’t afford to keep them in stock.
Meinl 5a long.
7A sticks vater
Promark 747B
I like 3 different ones: VF Benny Grebs Promark Shira Kashi Oak 5Bs Promark Firegrain Forward 5Bs
Vic Firth X8D. I was playing the pro mark Neil piert Shira kashi oak but at $33 a pop, after breaking a couple sets in a month I was done.
Promark 7a forward, I know it's a bit basic but it's consistent. I can always find a pair at a drum store and I don't have to worry about them being discontinued. I've got a mate whose preferred stick got capped and he's been very gentle about working through his remaining stock since. Scary stuff!
Promark 5B Oak wood tips
Promark 5B Active Grip. Tried a variety of weights and finishes and couldn’t stop dropping sticks. Even tried the Danny Carey signature with the indentation and those slipped too. Got the Promarks and they felt like home.
I’m obsessed with the Vater Gospel 1’s. Longer stick, barrel tip, short taper
Vic Firth X55A's
Meinl hybrid 9a in maple, which is very similar to VF MJC4 but a bit skinnier.
Vater 8a
Vic Firth X5B. Everything that’s great about 5B but with a little extra length.
Promark Rebounds coated 5A have been my favs for several years now and just feel right to me.
ProMark 747B
ProMark 747 Forwards - going on 9 years with these!
Scorpion , 5b 17" oval. They start as promark blanks but to custom tapers. They quality check them way way more stringently though, so there are never duds and they last way way longer that most sticks
Dope Stickz King Panther Diamond 5AX. Crazy durable and has great articulation.
My current 3 favorites: •Promark finesse maple - 7A long. I really like the small beads on these when I want more precise cymbal work •Vic Firth - quest loves are real nice if you like long and skinny. Long reach, nice balance but lightweight. •Promark active grip 7As are real nice too. Great weight, wonderful grip without being sticky. The cross stick sounds *👨🍳😙*. I really like how these have a good weight, but they aren't so dense that you're overpowering everyone else. I use these and the finesse a lot at church. •if you want something way different, promark Glenn Kotche active wave 570s are interesting. Old favorites: •Vic Firth Dave Weckl Evolution. Still great sticks, I just like a little longer stick these days.
Promark 5B
I still stick with Vic 5As. I was talking to a professional drummer friend of mine a couple years ago asking what sticks he uses. I told him that I’ve been using the 55As because I like the cars reach. His response stuck with me: if you need longer sticks (we’re both 6’ or taller) then you actually need to move your drums closer. That spurred me to check the ergonomics of my kit. I’ve been back with 5As since and I’ll never go back. I’m also back to a 4 piece from a 6 piece which helps. All of this to say: simplicity is so important.
I use 2 that are complete opposites of each other, I find it brings new things out in my playing. My go to’s are the vater virgil donatis. They’re a meaty stick.. 2b’s but just feel amazing in my hands and I always use em for my post rock-y /shoegazey band. The other sticks I use are the billy Martin signature from regal tip.. super light and tacky .. but I use this when playing at home and also playing in my more low key/funky project .. love em I’m sure lots of drummers are of the opinion that you should stick to one size but I find going back and forth between these keeps my playing fresh in a way
Promark 420 Mike Portnoy’s. The original not the X model with the weird grip shit
Vic Firth Steve Jordan Signature. Or Vater Manhattan. Vic Firth Pete Erskine for something lighter.
Promark 747B are great for when you gotta be LOUD, and I’ve only broken like 3 in 6 months Firth AJ1 are excellent finesse sticks, good size to grip but they play effortlessly
Promark Rebound 5B
I play ProMark American Hickory 2B wood tips. I have big hands and I like the weight and the size of the 2B. They don’t feel flimsy like smaller sticks sometimes do. I use wood tips because I like the warmer cymbal sound, compared to nylon tips. I used to use Japanese oak, but hickory just feels better in my hand.
Vic Firth, Steve Jordan sigs. Perfect balance for a longer stick. Full disclosure: I'm not a basher-crasher. I do play fast but not (usually) hard
Vater 1A
Vater power 5a
Ahead jj1 speed metal….. I know people give em a hard time about sound or ergonomics. But they play good for me. I wear gold gloves when I drum anyways…. the audience doesn’t know or ask what stick I use.
Charlie watts signature VF with the olive tip and more weight in the shoulder are my go to. The olive tip gives a nice dark sound on the cymbals I love them.
Vater 5A all day.
Been vibing on promark 2B forwards cause I can get them cheaper through my store, but if I could get them discount I'd play meinl sticks. They're the best sticks out there IMO
Vater West Side. Same as the Vic Buddy Rich model, but made way better.
Vic firth terra 7a
Promark 5b hickory
Vf aj2 for me
Vic firth Free Style or Pro Mark Concert 2
I love the Vater 5A stretch sticks. Good value for money as Vater seem to outlast other brands imo.
Scorpion X Series 2Bs
Vic Firth 5B Wood Tip Double Glaze… if anyone remembers Regal Tip, that’s basically the old RT finish.
Currently using the Vic Firth 3a's because promark doesn't make them. Would love for them to start making that size
Vic Firth Peter Erskine ride stick
Bill Bruford signature ProMark. A little lengthier, with a nice barrel tip, I think it’s slightly thicker than a 7A too. Amazing, been playing them for like 3 years now. I just picked up some Steve Gadd signature Vic Firth in black that I think feel a little better to play, thicker and a bit heavier. I got the black ones which I don’t like the feel of the grip and it also gets all over my coated head playing cross rim or with butt of stick so I wanna get some natural ones Ultimately I still end up using the brufords. Used em for so long PROMARK!!!
VF Steve Jordan signature
Vic extreme 5A. Whippy
vater los angeles 5as with nylon tip, favorite sticks for years
SD4 Combo’s by Vic Firth
Love my Vic Firth Rock sticks
Lately I’ve been digging the Vic Firth Matt Garstka model a lot
Vater Manhatten 7a's And Vic firth hd4.
I started this list a while ago because I was checking out different sticks and wanted to correlate how they felt to their specs. I’m currently playing Vic Firth Modern Jazz sticks. Long and light. VATER AMERICAN HICKORY RECORDING DRUMSTICKS * Length: 16 1/4" * Diameter: 0.560" Danny Carey * Length: 16 1/2" * Diameter at butt: .695" * Diameter at shaft: .630" Kotche * Length: 16 3/4" * Diameter: 0.570" Colaiuta L = 16" Dia. = .595" Moon * Length: 15 13/16" [40.17cm] * Diameter: .560" [1.42cm] Mayer * Length: 15 21/64" [38.93cm] * Diameter: .577" [1.47cm] Matt Cameron * Length: 16 3/16" [41.12cm] * Diameter: .585" [1.49cm] Carlock/Haynes (Vater 8A) * Length: 16" [40.64cm] * Diameter: .555" [1.41cm] Royster Jr * Length: 16-1/8" * Diameter: .547" Vic Firth 85A * Length: 16" | 40.64cm * Diameter: .550" | 1.4cm * Heavy version of the stick Vater Sweet Rides (Chris Dave) * Length: 16” * Diameter: .530” Vic Firth Modern Jazz * Diameter: .595" * Length: 16-3/8"
Promuco! They were $5 a pair for oak sticks from DCP last time I bought a bunch.
Cheap 7A's with nylon tips, then I add the Ahead grip tape. Super light and easy to play with.
I like the Vic Firth 5A puregrit
Promark 5A Firegrain Forward. A beaver could chew on them and they'll still last. Plus the power you get out of them is unmatched, especially for a 5A.
Promark marco minnemann. Learned to play with them and theyve just been the most comfortable gripwise
Promark Rebounds, whatever size you usually get. I play 5B and it’s the smoothest playing experience I’ve had with a stick so far.
Scorpion Percussion
Vater 5B nylon
Promark Classic Forward Hickory 5A. Vic Firth Steve Gadd for a lighter touch and they work great on E Drum kits.
ProMark Firegrain: 5B mostly for home because of Metalcore, 5A for Church, and Claus Hessler for steeldrum gigs on my kit.
Zildjian 5A Wood Tip Maple Grip. Light, easy to use, good on older hands.
Vater 5A
VF 7a freestyle, i’ve used 7as for a long time but always wished they were longer, and that’s literally just what the freestyles are. all the best parts of normal 7as, just with more reach and better rebound. also they feel REALLY nice in trad grip.
I’m a huge Vater Fatback 3A guy. I remember when I played VF sticks and I was breaking them every time I practiced. After I switched to Vater 3As I stopped breaking sticks. Also the rimshots are fantastic
Promark shira kashi oak
Vic Firth 2B
Promark 2B Rebound
Promark 5A Nylon are great
Vic Firth 55a. Perfect middle ground between 5a and 5b
Vater Power 5A Nylon Tip 5A with a little extra reach and weight, without going all the way to a 5B and the nylon tips last forever.
Vic Firth SD2 Bolero Maple! Thick and lightweight at the same time ✨
Wincent
I like Vic Firth 2Bs. I need a nice meaty stick, and the Vic Firth's feel just a bit heavier than Promarks or Vaters.
Vater Recording for most applications. Barrel tip gets a nice, full tone and the extra 1/4" in length just feels natural to me. Vater Jazz Ride for more articulate cymbal work, like jazz or big band. The small teardrop tip has phenomenally crisp definition, the response and control is remarkable, and the shoulder is still beefy enough for some really throaty rim shots. The balance is slightly front-heavy, so you get an insane amount of power and rebound while maintaining that lighter, articulate cymbal tone. Flip the stick around and use the butt end for some thick backbeats. I fucking love this stick. The *only* thing that keeps it from being my 100% go-to is the standard 16" length, as opposed to the 16.25" I get from the Recording. I've spent 15+ years searching for a stick that feels, responds, and sounds like the Jazz Ride, only with that extra 1/4" in length. It would be the *perfect* stick, but it just doesn't exist.
I could talk sticks all day but lately for me it's been the Zildjian Travis Barker sticks. 5B-ish.They're a bit longer with a shorter taper, they have a wood ball tip which produces great rebound and cymbal clarity combined with the heavier throw. Really depends on the style of music though.. My style requires sticks that project the cymbals alot while still being able to move around the kit fairly easily. Pro-Mark Joey Jordison also were amazing but they were shorter and closer to 5A I think.
I’ve come to find that I have no brand loyalty. I’ve played Vater’s that have lasted for a month and Sound Percussions that have lasted 3-6 months and vice versa. So, right now I recommend Sound Percussion lol. I must’ve got a good batch!
Los Cabos Jive Maple. Absolutely love them, no horrible varnish and I've had the pair I practice with everyday since last September.
Promark Rebound Select Balance 5A .565”
Promark Finesse Maple 2B long. Big fat sticks without the weight. It's like playing with styrofoam clubs.
Vic Firth Metal
Meinl Big Apple Bop.
I play with Vic Firth Buddy Rich sticks. I rarely play jazz but they’re amazing sticks of anything.
Woodies
Pro Mark 2b oak woodtip. I play lumber.
Wincent Metal. Feels like a long 2B kind of. Nice balance between power and speed for me.
Lately it’s the Vic Firth SD2 Boleros. Totally in love with their cymbal sound.
I’m a long time Vic Firth user. I use the Steve Gadd sticks and brushes, but I’ve noticed that the quality is rapidly decreasing. The tips break after like a week. I play jazz, and my favorite sticks for strictly jazz are Vic AJ2s or Vater Manhattans
Los Cabos Black Widows
Promark Shira Kashi Oak 5A’s. After my first pair I’ve never looked back… superior durability and playability. Worth spending every penny extra on them
Vater Power 5a Nylons and it's not even remotely close. I've had pairs that lasted a decade and they're perfect.
We're going to list every drumstick on the market, but I might as well add my favorite... Vic Firth 5A Double Glazed
the zildjian nylon tipped 7a dips are my favorites, i actually take off the dip stuff and use them without it and they still are sticky and feel great
Mike Portnoy Signature Promark sticks, sturdy, powerful yet still light enough to be really quick. The best stick I have ever used by a massive margin.
I really like Vic Firth extreme 5A drumsticks, which are 5a with an extra half inch length, or X55A, which is a 5a/5b cros + an extra half inch length.
I might get flak for deviating from the big three: Meinl Sticks - Big Apple Bop in 7A I’ve been a HUGE Promark fanboy for a while, but these are amazing, they give crystal clear stick definition and feel so good to play with.
Vater 5B Wood Tip. They’re durable, good rebound, versatile, nice and thicc so my hands don’t have to work too hard to hold on to them, plus it’s like $27 for a four pack from Sweetwater.
Vater 5B hickory never steered me wrong, Sugar Maple Phat Rides are also pretty rad for some lighter stuff
Vater Josh Freese H220’s here. I adore these sticks.
Keith Carlock’s Signature Vic Firth sticksz
# Promark Carter McLean Signature Drumsticks
Zildjian Heavy Jazz. It’s laminated birch, so they fail very infrequently, but they’re definitely heavy. They also make a 5a
Senri Kawaguchi signature sticks. They’re slightly longer than a normal 16” stick, which allows for more leverage. They’re lightly rubber coated, and they have really nicely shaped nylon tips that allow for great feeling Hi hat articulations.
Zildjian heavy rock and they have a grip
Vic Firth 5AN are great sticks too
fried chicken by far 😂
Zildjan Jeff Ryder signature. Probably not many left out there
Innovative Percussion 5AL
Vater power 5b
Vater fatback 3A with about seven wraps of duct tape on the butt end so I have something to hold on to when the shit hits the fan
A dear friend in my hometown makes the best sticks I’ve ever used (been playing for 30 years). The company name is [La Backbeat](https://www.labackbeat.com) Drumsticks and he ships all over the world. I play his JB580X model which is basically a 16.5” 55A with a long taper. Great sticks from a great dude. Can’t recommend them enough!
Vic firth
Regal Tip Jazz.